EMEA planners cool on US events, turning to other regions amid political, economic and pricing concerns, says PULSE Survey. Photo Credit: Adobe Stock/md (Generated with AI)
Northstar and Cvent’s new Meetings Industry PULSE Survey published in May 2025 shows a notable shift in sentiment among event planners – particularly those based in EMEA – when it comes to holding events in the United States.
Rising costs, logistical complexity, and an evolving geopolitical landscape are beginning to shape decision-making in ways that could redefine where meetings are headed in the months to come.
While planners are still eager to meet, there are signs that confidence is being tested. Meeting budgets are under strain, attendance expectations are softening, and timelines for planning are getting tighter.
At the same time, some destinations are seeing an opportunity. As the US navigates through a period of increased scrutiny from international planners, other regions – including APAC – are emerging as attractive alternatives.
The survey additionally captures key shifts in:
Planner confidence around US destinations
Meeting budgets, attendance expectations, and room blocks
Lead times and sourcing activity
What destinations must do to stay competitive
Download the full report here for fresh insights, revealing planner feedback, and a clearer view of where the global meetings industry is heading next.